The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Wheels in motion for Ring of Kerry Cycle ‘17 edition
IT’S always a sure sign the year is turning when details of the ever popular Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle are announced. With more than €11.9 million raised so far, the committee have announced the 10 beneficiary charities for 2017. The cycle is in its 34th year and is one of Ireland’s biggest one-day fundraising drives, attracting over 10,000 leisure cyclists who encounter majestic scenery throughout the 112-mile route.
Registration for the cycle opens on February 25 and there will be 10,000 spaces available. Participants will be required to select one of the 10 main beneficiary charities to cycle for. Each charity will then be allocated 1,000 cyclists and, when allocated spaces for a charity are full, cyclists will have the option of selecting another charity with availability.
“With each charity allocated 1,000 cyclists, they will have a chance to directly engage with a set group of cyclists to facilitate their fundraising and inspire close kinship during preparations for the big event,” said Cathal Walshe, PRO of the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle.
“There will be no lottery system this year and registrations will be taken on a first come first served basis. The 2017 process has evolved to provide a smoother process for cyclists and fundraisers to engage with,” he said.
The cycle raised over €1.7 million in 2016 and Cathal said they’re looking forward to working closely with this year’s charities. He also praised the work of the volunteers who he credited with making the cycle such an enormous success.
He added: “The registration fee for 2017 is €100 plus a 3.5 percent service fee. Cyclists will have the option to make additional donations or fundraise for their chosen charity and can additionally request a sponsorship card or set up an online fundraising page with ‘Everyday Hero’ to facilitate their own fundraising journey.”
This year’s cycle takes place on July 1. The 2017 charities are: Derrynane Inshore Rescue Services, Kerry Rape & Sexual Abuse Centre, Talbot Grove, Recovery Haven, Social Action Group Rathmore, Kerry Parents & Friends Association, Down Syndrome Ireland – Kerry Branch, Camphill Community Dingle, Temple Street Foundation and Valentia Island Hospital.